MBABANE – From Eswatini roots to international recognition, Zee Nxumalo’s star continues to rise.
Afro-pop sensation Zee Nxumalo has added another major achievement to her growing list of accolades after securing the coveted June/July cover of GQ magazine.
The singer shared the exciting milestone with her followers on social media yesterday, encouraging fans to celebrate the achievement. “Pause the English lessons for now, and actually celebrate these milestones,” she wrote, drawing widespread praise from supporters and fellow artists.
The cover feature marks another significant moment in the career of the Eswatini-born musician, whose rise in the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. In the accompanying GQ article, Zee credits much of her recent success to the chart-topping hit Mamma, a collaboration with Funk 55, DBN Gogo and Shakes Les. The song achieved an impressive five-times Platinum certification, cementing her status as one of South Africa’s most exciting Afro-pop voices.
Founded in 1931, GQ (Gentlemen’s Quarterly) is one of the world’s leading lifestyle and fashion publications, renowned for spotlighting influential figures in entertainment, culture, fashion and sports.
Born Zandile Nxumalo on January 6, 2003, in Eswatini, Zee later moved with her family to Alexandra, Johannesburg, where she was raised. Her father is of LiSwati heritage while her mother is Xhosa, a rich cultural blend that has helped shape her distinctive musical identity.
Eswatini audiences were introduced to Zee’s live performance during her debut appearance at the MTN Bushfire Festival in May last year. Speaking to this publication ahead of the performance, she expressed excitement about performing in her birthplace for the first time and revealed that family members from kaHlatsi were eagerly anticipating her arrival.
Away from music, Zee is equally committed to her education. She attended Sandown High School and is currently pursuing a Law degree at the University of Johannesburg.
Her musical journey began at a young age, encouraged by relatives who frequently invited her to sing at family gatherings and funerals. At 19, she officially launched her career with the release of Siyajola, showcasing the vocal talent that would soon attract a growing fan base.
A turning point came in 2023 when she realised audiences were willing to pay to watch her perform, inspiring her to pursue music professionally. Social media further accelerated her growth, eventually opening doors to international opportunities, including a tour in the United Kingdom.
Last year, Zee earned a nomination at the Metro FM Music Awards in the Best Kwaito/Gqom Song category for FOMO, featuring Goldmax, Dlala Thukzin and Funky Qla. She also delivered a performance at the prestigious event.
At just 23 years old, the Afro-pop and Amapiano star continues to break barriers. Her hit single Thula Mabota has surpassed five million views on YouTube, while her latest GQ cover serves as further proof that Zee Nxumalo is rapidly becoming one of the region’s most influential young artists.
For Zee, the journey from a young girl singing at family gatherings to gracing the cover of an internationally recognised magazine is a testament to talent, perseverance and the power of embracing one’s roots.
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